Curtains, Corsets, and Culture: The History and Role of Drag in Shaping Theatre and Opera

Abstract

Under the shimmering glow of spotlights, a performer parades across the stage in a cascade of fabrics and sequins, their gestures exaggerated, the voice of the performer commanding every ear within the house. The audience erupts, captivated by the dazzling illusion, yet acutely aware of the transformation. This is the art of drag - an ancient theatrical device as powerful as it is polarizing. Drag in theater and opera stands as a testament to the transformative power of performance. Drag, defined by many as a stylized form of gender expression that exaggerates characteristics - often blending elements of theater/performing arts, makeup, fashion, wigs, and sociopolitical commentary - has been at the epicenter of artistic expression on the stage since ancient times. From the plays of Ancient Greece to the elaborate character portrayals by boy actors in Shakespeare's plays in Elizabethan time to the opulent divas of grand opera, drag has played a pivotal role in theater and opera for centuries. This performance style has continually evolved, reflecting along with challenging formalities. Drag's rich history underscores its vital role in theater and opera as a cornerstone of the performing arts. From sociological, theatrical, and arts management perspectives, drag not only preserves the history of theater and the LGBTQ+ community through both historical and campy lenses but as well as challenges the audience by reshaping their perspectives. This project explores how drag deepens storytelling in theater and opera, particularly on Broadway, while challenging societal norms and expanding representation. Drag has always been a form of cultural resistance, and when integrated into traditional productions, it creates space for broader representation and challenges conventional ideas. In an era where drag faces increasing political scrutiny, this research also seeks to dismantle stigma along with advocate for its value as an art form. Through academic inquiry and continued work within the field I hope to explore how drag contributes to a more inclusive and innovative theatrical landscape. This thesis examines the cultural, historical, and artistic significance of drag in theater and opera, focusing on its political and sociological implications. As gender identity and performance gain visibility in popular discourse, productions such as La Cage aux Folles, Hairspray, and Kinky Boots in theater, and The Marriage of Figaro and Der Rosenkavalier in opera, demonstrate how drag serves as both a visual spectacle as well as a medium for cultural resistance. By analyzing specific productions, their receptions, and conducting interviews with performers, scholars, and professionals, this thesis provides a comprehensive exploration of how drag has reshaped the artistic landscape of performance.